Contact: Ross Elliott, Director, EMS Agency, Department of Public Health, 661-868-5201

Selected through sole source negotiation to assist the County in the examination and evaluation of its EMS system. This project is designed in three phases. The first is a comprehensive review of the current system, including input from system stakeholders, to identify specific issues and opportunities for system improvements.  Significant issues investigated include system performance, system economics, Exclusive Operating Areas, the air ambulance response plan, first responder integration and outlining a plan to accomplish the County’s goals. The second phase will include revision of the County EMS ordinance, negotiation of interim contracts with existing providers, establishment of countywide ambulance rates, development of detailed system specifications, development and submission to the State EMS Authority of a revised EMS Transportation Plan and the establishment of Exclusive Operating Areas. The third phase will include implementation of the plan including possible negotiation of performance contracts with “grandfathered” providers and development and management of an RFP process for those areas that the County chooses not to “grandfather”.

Principals and Associates Involved:  Shrader, Washko

Implementation: Report submitted to Board. Recommendations Adopted. Negotiated interim contracts with 5 existing providers while redesigning system to incorporate exclusive operating areas for ground and air ambulance services. Developed ambulance rate evaluation model. Currently implementing exclusive operating area contracts with five providers.